Girls soccer: Scouting 2026 DuPage County and Fox Valley season
Aurora Central Catholic
Coach: Enrique Anaya (6th year)
Last year’s record: 12-7-1, 4-2 Chicago Catholic Conference (4th place)
Top returning players: Maddie Berry, jr., MF; Alexsa Javier, sr., D; Olivia Lujano, sr., MF; Viviana Lujano, so., MF; Isabella Matty, sr., S; Nora Schwartz, jr., GK
Key newcomers: Kaelyn DeMars, fr., S; Evalyn Seifrid, fr., MF
Worth noting: Anaya said the junior class will fill up most of the lineup for a team that’s young and full of potential. Olivia Lujano scored 15 goals last year.
Bartlett
Coach: Vince Revak (8th year)
Last year’s record: 7-7-4, 4-1-1 Upstate Eight West (3rd place)
Top returning players: Anais Vazquez, jr., MF; Mia Lamz, sr., D; Christina Soumakis, so., F
Key newcomers: Julia Boguslawski, fr., MF; Natalia Kopanicak, fr., MF
Worth noting: The Hawks will need scorers. Their abilities in other respects on the field are impressive with 10 starters back, including the aforementioned three and Sophie Meloche, Alayna Ernst, Amelia Medvid, Francesca Russo, Averi Barca, Yarissa Aguilar and Karolina Boguslawski.
Batavia
Coach: Mark Gianfrancesco
Last season’s record: 11-9-1, 5-2 DuKane Conference (second place)
Top returners: Emma Wecker, sr., F; Payton Haslett, sr., D; Addison Wujciga, sr., MF; Anna Grometer, jr., MF; Gianna Reid, jr., GK; Leah Zimberoff, jr., MF
Key newcomer: Ashley Bernal, jr, MF; Emma Rozsonits, jr., D; Marin Schwab, jr., MF; Sammie, Donahue, so., D
Worth noting: The Bulldogs last season tied their best record and finish within DuKane Conference play, finishing only behind undefeated Wheaton Warrenville South. Wecker led the team with 10 goals to go alongside five assists to earn all-sectional honors, while Zimberoff added six goals and seven assists. Haslett will look to lead the backline after losing All-State honoree Hannah Hickman to graduation. “We are looking to build relationships on the pitch throughout the season,” Gianfrancesco said. “We have some nice talent that we will work to bring out as the season progresses.”
Benet
Coach: Gerard Oconer (10th year)
Last year’s record: 14-7-2, 6-0 East Suburban Catholic Conference (1st place)
Top returning players: Payton Cable, jr., D; Sophia Duncan, jr., D; Kasey Glynn, jr., D; Giada McGlynn, sr., GK; Ivana Vukas, sr., MF/F; Ashley Polanco, so., MF/F; Sahana Raju, so., D
Key newcomers: Megan Bergman, jr., MF; Genevieve Burda, fr., F; Annie Fitzgerald, sr., MF/F; Olivia Pecak, fr., MF; Preslie Petersen, jr., F; Chloe Reifsnyder, so., F; Collins Weaver, fr., D
Worth noting: The Redwings return Vukas, the ESCC Player of the Year, and McGlynn, the ESCC Goalkeeper of the Year, and welcome the return of Fitzgerald (11 goals, 7 assists in 2024) and Bergman (6 goals, 4 assists in 2024) from club soccer. Polanco (10 goals, 2 assists last year) and Duncan also return after earning all-conference.
Cary-Grove
Coach: Anne Santucci (second season)
2025 season: 8-6-2, 6-3 FVC (third)
Top returners: Ainsley Kemp, sr., GK; Malaina Kurth, sr., F; Julia Valaitis, sr., F; Brynn Harasimowicz, sr., M; Addie Penrod, sr., M; Alissa Penrod, sr., M; Taylor Hamann, sr., D; Maddie Dieschbourg, sr., M; Ella St. Onge, sr., F; Ava Santucci, jr., D; Avery Hoffman, jr., D; Gabby McMorris, jr., D; Julia Nichols, jr., D; Ellie Gerstung, jr., D; Alexis Stortz, so., D; Avery Brown, so., F
Key newcomers: Priscilla Gonzalez, sr., M; Katy Jauch, jr., D; Brook Gerstung, jr., F; Bella Frangiamore, fr., M/F
Worth noting: Kurth, Valaitis and Kemp were each named All-FVC players last spring. … The Trojans took third in the FVC. … “Every important match we lost last year was a close game in which we let down in the last 10,“ Anne Santucci said. ”We are older and more experienced this year with clear goals and motivation to finish the close game, and the newcomers will make a strong impact on an already strong roster.”
Crystal Lake South
Coach: Caitlyn Dayton (third season)
2025 season: 3-17, 0-9 FVC (10th)
Top returners: Ari Ali, so., GK; Marin Gorman, jr., M/D; Maddy Landa, sr., M; Tessa Melhuish, jr., M; Raelynn Ranum, jr., M/D; Allison Ray, so., D; Ellie Starnes, so., M
Key newcomers: Kylee Del Bosque, fr., D/F; Abby Magadan, fr., D/M; Delaney Ranum, fr., M; Kooka Toktoralieva, fr., D
Worth noting: The Gators are shooting to improve on a winless FVC record last season. Crystal Lake South did not have any All-FVC honorees in 2025. … “While our roster is still fairly young, we return a strong core with valuable experience from last season,” Dayton said. “This group comes in with a fresh mindset and a willingness to compete and work hard for each other every day. Our focus is on continuing to grow together as a team throughout the season so that we’re playing our best soccer in May.”
Downers Grove North
Coach: Martin Manzke (third year)
Last year’s record: 9-8-4, 3-3 West Suburban Silver Conference (second place)
Top returning players: Campbell Thulin, jr., D
Key newcomers: To be determined.
Worth noting: Trojans outscored opponents 49-26 last season, but have some spots to fill due to graduation, including the departure of all-sectional selection Lexi Keown.
Downers Grove South
Coach: Chris Hernandez (12th year)
Last year’s record: 8-9-1, 4-2 West Suburban Gold Conference (third place)
Top returning players: Mallory Crowley, sr., D; Hannah Hake, jr., MF; Kendall Kuntz, jr., D; Gianna Lamb, jr., MF; Yessi Lopez, jr., MF; Megan Pogorelec, sr., D; Delia Whaley, sr., GK
Key newcomers: Katie Laurer, so., D; Cora Murphy, so., F; Abby Stapleton, so., MF
Worth noting: Last year the Mustangs started as many as seven underclassmen. Now, with a year more of experience, they’ll look to get over. 500.
Dundee-Crown
Coach: Rob Moulton (fifth season)
2025 season: 8-10-2, 4-5 FVC (seventh)
Top returners: Rylie Mensik, sr., F; Ashling Otte, sr., D; Coral Peralta, sr., D; Lexi Benitez, sr., M; Lizbeth Romero, jr., M; Madelyn Peralta, jr., M; Gabby Lindholm, jr., M; Olivia Holic, so., M; Valeria Rodarte, so., D; Mia Flores, so., D
Key newcomers: Leslie Hernandez, sr., M; Leslie Cortez, sr., D; Karla Guillen, sr., GK; Ashley Ayala, jr., M/D; Ariceli Ceja, jr., M; Leilani Hurtado, jr., D; Grace Lewis, jr., M/D; Yasmin Rocha, jr., M; Xiomara Villatoro, jr., M; Erika Mandujano, so., D; Analy Ramirez, fr., M
Worth noting: The Chargers welcome back one All-FVC player in Mensik, who had 28 goals last year. … “We are looking forward to building from last year’s success,” Moulton said. “We look forward to competing for a conference championship and the state tournament. We were in a lot of close games last year and look to finish more of those games in our favor. We look forward to the opportunity.”
Elgin
Coach: Alicia Knoll (15th year)
Last year’s record: 15-4-2, 2-3-1 Upstate Eight West Conference (4th place)
Top returning players: Melanie Aguilar, sr., D; Michele Ayala, jr., MF; Isabel Cruz, jr., D; Ximena Magana, sr., MF; Alexa Orozco, sr., D; Amy Rodriguez, sr. MF; Scarlette Sanchez, sr., MF
Key newcomers: Xenia Salas, sr., D
Worth noting: Magana (22 goals, 15 assists) and Ayala (11 goals, 18 assists) are back to lead a strong, experienced and talented group.
Fenton
Coach: Victor Ruiz (28th year)
Last year’s record: 5-9-1, 1-5-1 Upstate Eight East Conference (6th place)
Top returning players: Jovanna Galeana, sr., D; Isabel Javier, jr., MF; Aubri Ocampo, jr., D; Marylin Palacios, jr., MF
Key newcomers: Kiera Jimenez, fr.; Alison Weiler, fr.
Worth noting: Ruiz said he’s hoping the girls develop great chemistry quickly so that they can finish among the top three in conference before making a run in the post-season.
Geneva
Coach: Megan Owens
Last season’s record: 6-13-4, 2-5 DuKane Conference (sixth place)
Top returners: Olivia Pohlman, jr., MF; Olivia Hagen, sr., D; Tegan Modjeski, sr., D; Ella Howard, sr., D; Addison Sostak, sr., D; Claire Reeve, jr., F; Regan Grubb, so., MF; Maggie Anderson, sr., D Nicolette Sheridan, sr., D
Key newcomer: Katelyn Johnson, fr., GK; Bridget Burke, fr., F; Lila Clemons, fr, F; Haddie Wilkinson, fr., MF; Alexis Guess, so., MF; Abby Frazer, so., MF; Hadley Stajduhar, so., D; Skyla Rothaar, jr., GK; Ila Cunningham, jr., D; Talia Reynolds, jr., F; Jackie Collins, jr., D; Riley Sultzbaugh, sr., F
Worth noting: The Vikings suffered just their second losing season under Owens last season, with their only other one coming back in 2015. However, Owens said she’s excited to see how the team rebounds and reloads this season, and expects a lot of young talent to make waves. “(We) have a lot of promise this season and expect several new additions to make an immediate and significant impact,” Owens said. “We have a solid core of hardworking, versatile players who will continue to grow and jell as a group under veteran leadership.”
Glenbard East
Coach: Athena Toliopoulos (4th year)
Last year’s record: 7-10-3, 4-0-2 Upstate Eight East Conference (2nd place)
Top returning players: Sam Anderson, jr., F; Clair Carnahan, so., F; Paige Goldsmith, sr., D; Jazzlyn Hamilton, sr., MF; Gen Hart, so., MF; Kathleen Nevels, sr., D; Nora Opila, sr., F
Key newcomers: Grace Scott, fr., D; Gretchen Nytko, fr., MF/F
Worth noting: The Rams have an exciting freshman class, including Scott and Nytko, as well as senior class, including Goldsmith, Hamilton, Nevels and Opila, fixtures in Lombard for four years.
Glenbard North
Coach: Miguel Domínguez Carreño (5th year)
Last year’s record: 5-12-1, 1-6 DuKane Conference (7th place)
Top returning players: Melissa Aguilar, sr., CB; Leah Carlson, jr, FB; Daniela Garcia, sr., GK; Kaylee Hesik, sr., MF; Alexa López, so., MF; Giselle Meraz-Mendez, sr., W; Lindsey Moore, sr., CB; Giselle Ortiz, sr., S; Ella Pardo, sr, FB; Luciana Sánchez, sr., W
Worth noting: “We look forward to seeing our athletes enjoy the experience of the season, grow through its challenges, and draw strength from each other,” Carreño said. The Panthers will maximize the potential of their roster, leaning on their vets.
Glenbard South
Coach: Kevin Berner (12th year)
Last year’s record: 14-6, 5-0-1 Upstate Eight East Conference (1st place)
Top returning players: Izzy Breaut, jr., D; Kaitlin Erickson, jr., F; Callie Hardtke, sr., MF; Adamari Ortiz, jr., MF; Lily Pagano, so., GK
Worth noting: Berner anticipates a breakthrough season from Ortiz who will look to lead the Raiders to back-to-back conference titles. It’ll take some contributions from some new players as the Raiders lost six seniors from the class of ’25.
Glenbard West
Coach: Adam Syzszko (eighth year)
Last year’s record: 12-7-4, 3-3 West Suburban Silver Conference (second place)
Top returning players: Hana Allen, sr., D; Jen Gritis, jr., F; Lily Hubbuch, jr., MF; Patty Prescott, sr., D
Key newcomers: Brooklyn Eggers, so., F; Sienna Michaels, jr., F; Caroline Sawyer, so., MF/D; Kaitlyn Stortz, jr., D; Mimi Zucchero, jr., MF
Worth noting: Allen (St. Louis) is among a strong of core of starters who return along with key bench players from a sectional-qualifying squad. Look for the Hilltoppers to add pieces from their JV group that lost just four times in two years.
Hampshire
Coach: Bradley Crim (first season)
2025 season: 2-14-1, 1-7-1 FVC (eighth)
Top returners: Mikala Amegasse, sr., M/F; Shayne Norris, sr., M/D; Langston Kelly, jr., F
Key newcomers: Avery Morales, fr., M
Worth noting: Crim takes over as head coach of the Whip-Purs, replacing Kelly Madison. … Hampshire tied for eighth place with McHenry in the FVC last season. … The Whips had one All-FVC player last season, Ilse Marquez, who graduated. … “The Hampshire High School girls soccer team has the mindset that we want to win and win now,” Crim said.
Harvest-Westminster
Coach: Rob Luck (1st year)
Last year’s records: (Harvest Christian Academy 15-1, 4-0; Westminster Christian 8-8, 3-1)
Top returning players: Mia Craig, so., S; Caroline Dinapoli, so., MF/F; Diana Dinapoli, sr., MF/F; Brooke Jacobs, sr., GK; Lily Johnson, so., MF/D; Cora Lewis, sr., D; Abby Rizzo, sr., MF; Sheridan St. Louis, so., F
Key newcomers: Ariana Luck, fr., GK/D
Worth noting: Coach Luck said the blending of talent from the rosters of the two schools provides an exciting outlook for the immediate future with a mix of solid returning starters and intriguing newcomers.
Hinsdale Central
Coach: Anthony Madonia (eighth year)
Last year’s record: 19-6, 6-0 West Suburban Silver (first place)
Top returning players: Emily DiTomasso, jr., MF: Caitlin Doherty, jr., F; Adrianna Giannini, sr. D; Gabby Gjeldum, so., GK; Cara Groom, sr., MF; Addie Krogstie, sr., MF/D; Sloane Kumskis, jr., D; Charlotte Peterson, jr., F; Tegan Steines, sr., D
Key newcomers: Mia Angeletti, jr., D; Amelia Bingham, fr., F; Katie Coffey, jr., MF/D; Chloe Fisher, fr., MF/F; Caroline Gantar, jr., GK; Ammie Hsieh, so., MF; Grace Hudson, fr., MF; Charlotte Knotts, so., MF; Peyton Regnery, jr., F; Nora Waldron, jr., F
Worth noting: Doherty (22 goals last year) is back to lead the attack for a motivated, engaged and intelligent group of talented players, featuring a mix of returning players and new faces.
Hinsdale South
Coach: Jen Belmonte (12th year)
Last year’s record: 18-6, 6-0 West Suburban Gold Conference (first place)
Top returning players: Molly Curley, sr., D; Brynn Diedrich, jr., MF/F; Olivia Harding, so., D; Samantha Johnston, jr., D; Sloan Kiefer, sr., MF; Kennedy Ruff, sr., MF/F; Alyssa Watson, sr., D
Key newcomers: Josslyn Farrare, sr., Macey Laskowski, sr.
Worth noting: Diedrich and Ruff are back on the attack, Watson returns as the anchor in back and leader of the squad while Farrare and Laskowski, a pair of seniors who played for the Hornets as freshmen before working on securing Division I scholarships through club play, are huge additions. Plus, Curley, Kiefer and Jessica Aillon are three more key seniors with a lot of experience.
Huntley
Coach: Matt Lewandowski (ninth season)
2025 season: 17-2-3, 9-0 FVC (first)
Top returners: Maizie Nickle, sr., F; Brooke Grabs, sr., M; Avery Suess, jr., D; Itzel Martinez, jr., M; Ashlyn Grabs, sr., GK
Key newcomers: Mia Moyer, jr., F; Sophie Virgilio, jr., D; Genevieve Adamson, fr., M
Worth noting: Huntley went undefeated to win the FVC before claiming its third consecutive regional title last spring. … The team faced Lake Zurich in the sectional semifinals, falling in penalty kicks. … Nickle had 24 goals and five assists last season. … Emma Emricson is committed to Loras College. … “We have a tougher schedule than last year, but have a good strong core of returners to lead us through, and some exciting newcomers,“ Lewandowski said. ”We’re hoping to continue being a top team in the FVC with hopes of making that next step in the postseason.”
Jacobs
Coach: Colin Brice (seventh season)
2025 season: 8-8-4, 4-4-1 FVC (sixth)
Top returners: Kylie Deegan, so., M; Clare Leib, so., M; Lauren Sandage, so., M; Addison Hunsicker, so., GK; Ava Nisi. sr., D; Mariela Perez, jr., D; Avery Michalak, so., M
Key newcomers: Britney Mahoney, fr., M; Julia Grabowski, fr., M; Emma Klisz, fr., D; Macie Quinn, fr., M
Worth noting: Deegan was named an All-FVC player last season for the Golden Eagles. … “The Jacobs girls team will be extremely young and talented this season, and I’m excited to get the girls competing against quality opponents,“ Brice said. ”The FVC should be very competitive, and we are excited to be in the mix. This is a great group of girls, and I am looking forward to seeing their growth this upcoming season."
Kaneland
Coach: Scott Parillo
Last season’s record: 18-6-2, 9-1 Interstate 8 (first place)
Top returners: Erin Doucette, sr., MF; Kyra Lilly, sr., MF; Taylor Mills, so., F; Ana Warrington, sr., D Olivia Davis, jr., MF/F; Sophia Rosati, jr., MF; Corinne Faivre, so., D; Lilly Guzman, jr., GK; Audrey Noring, jr., D/MF; Maya Heller, jr., D
Key newcomer: Elise Guernon, fr., F; Arden Stoddard, fr., D
Worth noting: The Knights return lots of familiar faces from last year’s regional championship team including Doucette, an All-State honoree that broke the program record for goals in a season last year with 40. Mills added 23 goals and nine assists in her freshman campaign, while Lilly was second on the team with 13 assists a season ago. “If we can stay healthy, we should be competitive,” Parillo said. “We bring back a lot of starters from last year’s team. I am looking forward to a fun and exciting season.”
Larkin
Coach: Mike Huizar (6th year)
Last year’s record: 4-20, 0-6 Upstate Eight West Conference (7th place)
Top returning players: Brinlee Jimenez, sr., MF; Asiris Perez, jr., MF
Worth nothing: Jimenez (6 goals, 1 assist) and Perez are among eight returning starters. Kiara Montesinos moves from center back to a defensive midfielder role and fellow seniors Naila Nunez and Samantha Santiago return as wingers. Senior fullback Leila Nunez, junior fullback Valeria Sanchez and junior striker Abigail Mota also return.
Lisle
Coach: Jamie Clemmons (2nd year)
Last year’s record: 14-6, 6-1 Illinois Central Eight (2nd place)
Top returning players: Rena Riley, sr., D; Lily Rocha, so., F; Emma Ryan, sr., F; Ireland Weaver, jr., MF
Key newcomers: Claire Gurgone, fr., GK; Valeria Rosas, so., MF
Worth noting: Graduated eight seniors, including its top two goal scorers. Rocha and Ryan were third and fourth in scoring last year. Weaver is a dominant presence in the midfield as Riley is in the back. Gurgone and Rosas are talented newcomers.
Metea Valley
Coach: Chris Whaley (12th year)
Last year’s record: 13-6-0, 3-2 DuPage Valley Conference (3rd place)
Top returning players: Reagan Bellagamba, so., D; Kylie Paulding, jr., D; Emma Strcic, sr., MF; Mckenna Wigfield, sr., MF
Key newcomers: Kaylee Russell, so., F; Maddie Zeitner, so., MF
Worth nothing: The Mustangs lost their top four point leaders from a year ago as well as defender Jessica Terada to an ankle injury, but their four top players are returning starters among a small group of only six returnees.
Naperville Central
Coach: Troy Adams (4th year)
Last year’s record: 20-2-1, 4-1 DuPage Valley Conference (1st place tied)
Top returning players: Emerson Burke, jr., F; Sophia Cochran, so., D; Erin Hackett, sr., GK; Nicole Sacek, jr., MF; Malia Shen, sr., F; Nicole Smith, sr., MF
Worth noting: The Redhawks graduated their four starting attacking players from last year, taking 44 goals and 34 assists with them. Fortunately for the program, several forwards played out of position last year, but will return to their natural positions this spring. Burke and Shen played outside back last year, contributing 9 goals and 18 assists, but will return to their natural forward positions.
Naperville North
Coach: Steve Goletz (14th year)
Last year’s record: 17-6-3, 3-2 DuPage Valley Conference (3rd), 2nd place in state in Class 3A
Top returning players: Kennedy Bertsch, jr., MF; Olivia Oschner, sr., GK; Lily Radek, jr., D
Worth noting: Claire DeCook and Emily Buescher are among those who graduated from a team that nearly won a state title. Oschner (UIC) is back for her fourth season in net and Radek and Bertsch are the three-year vets for a team that will look to replace influential players by committee.
Neuqua Valley
Coach: Arnoldo Gonzalez (4th year)
Last year’s record: 16-4, 4-1 DuPage Valley Conference (1st place tied)
Top returning players: Addison Guskey, jr., LB; Asha Kikama, so., CB; Miabella Kraai, jr., MF; Haley Linden, sr., RB; Alexis May, sr., W; Sydney Michalak, sr., CM
Key newcomers: Aubrey Guskey, fr., MF/F; Brooke Loudermilk, fr., W
Worth noting: Graduation losses from a 16-win squad will require some reloading and rebuilding this year, including the addition of eight new players.
Rosary
Coach: Gonzalo Aguilar (1st year)
Last year’s record: `1-18, 0-6 Chicago Catholic Conference (13th place)
Top returning players: Kaylany Aburto, sr., MF; Jillian Anderson, so., Brianna Crispino, so., Asia Huerta, jr., D; Jalen Lawson, jr., F; Camilia Reyes, fr.; Danielle Walter, fr.
Key newcomers: None listed.
Worth noting: “Our coaching staff is creating a good program based on their experiences playing soccer in a college level,” Aguilar said. “Soccer athletes can now enjoy what they love to do.”
South Elgin
Coach: Jerzy Skowron (4th)
Last year’s record: 15-8-2, 5-0-1 Upstate Eight West Conference (1st place)
Top returning players: Laura Garcia, sr., CM; Nevaeh Gyurko, sr., F; Avianna Hernandez, sr, CM; Lilly Rodriguez, jr., GK; Christina Slovik, jr., F; Lucy Tomasi, jr., CM; Ellie Vidic, sr., CB; Lindy Vidic, jr., CM
Key newcomers: Emily Barnes, jr., CB, Sydney Lippold, so., FB; Alyssa Rinaldo, fr., CB; Vianey Sixtos, fr., CM
Worth noting: The Storm is set to do some damage on opponents with Gyurko (23 goals, 8 assists), Hernandez (11 goals, 22 assists) and Slovik (15 goals, 9 assists) among the eight returning starters. Barnes returns at center back after being hurt last season.
St. Charles East
Coach: Vince DiNuzzo
Last season’s record: 19-7-2, 4-2-1 DuKane (fourth place)
Top returners: Presley Kannaka, jr., D; Sophia Wollenberg, jr., F; Mya Leon, so., F; Qori Strotkamp, so., MF; Georgia Smith, so., D; Mia Olenek, jr., GK; Georgia Desario, sr., MF
Key newcomer: Tatum Smith, sr., D; Maddie Sempsrott, jr., D; Leah Arroyo, so., F; JJ Silverberg, so., D
Worth noting: The Saints are coming off a year where they averaged 3.6 goals per game, and should be just as scary this season. Leon returns after an incredible freshman season, where she had 34 goals and 12 assists to earn all-state honors. Wollenberg (22 goals/16 assists) and Strotkamp (11 goals/19 assist) also return on the offensive side. Defensively, Smith returns to the backline after sitting out her junior season alongside Kannaka, while Olenek (Minnesota commit) will fill in for All-State goalie Sidney Lazenby in net. “The team is motivated to work hard and compete this season,” DiNuzzo said. “We are looking forward to a lot of new regular season opponents and the challenges they will provide us.”
St. Charles North
Coach: Brian Harks
Last season’s record: 11-6-3, 4-1-2 DuKane (third place)
Top returners: Lauren Korioth, sr., GK; Aubri Magana, jr., D; Kaitlin Nudera, sr., F; Maddie Room, jr., F; Maddie Shanahan, so., F; Keira Connolly, jr., MF; Addison Ybarra, jr., F
Key newcomer: Brooke Beller, jr., MF; Abby Smith, jr., D; Rachael Watts, sr., MF
Worth noting: The North Stars advanced to their 10th consecutive sectional final last season, where they lost to conference rival WW South. The North Stars, who allowed just 27 goals last season, will look to be led by their defense once again, with All-State defender Magana (UIC commit) leading the backline and Korioth (Ausburg College commit) in net. North does return a lot of front-line starters including Shanahan, who led the team with six goals as a freshman. “(We) are looking to pick up where they left off last season,” Harks said. “There is a strong group of returning and experienced players, mixed in with new talent that is hungry to prove themselves. They remain optimistic and they look forward to what this season will bring.”
St. Edward
Coach: Tim Brieger (32nd year)
Last year’s record: 8-13, 2-4 Chicago Christian Conference (5th place)
Top returning players: Emma DeVoll, sr., MF; Bre Epounge, sr., GK; Emma Fargo, jr., MF; Sara Hefflefinger, jr., D; Jocelyn Hidalgo, so.,, MF; Taylor Kapetan, sr., MF/D; Laura Osburn, so., D; Erica Scheider, jr., F; Gabby Sperling, jr., F
Key newcomers: Finaula Kiley, fr., MF/D; Teresa Osburn, sr., F
Worth noting: The Wave is strong with nine starters returning as well as four other players who got a lot of minutes off the bench and spot starts. Hidalgo (19 goals, 5 assists) had quite the debut season last spring and is back for more.
St. Francis
Coach: Jim Winslow (15th year)
Last year’s record: 12-5, 4-3 Chicago Catholic Conference (6th)
Top returning players: Harlee Duraski, jr., D; Caroline Kiesler, jr., MF; Meg Maertens, sr., F; Molly Marks, sr., MF; Maicie Schweiner, sr., F
Key newcomers: Andrea Acosta, fr., Ainsley Scott, fr.
Worth noting: Schweizer (26 goals, 4 assists), Kiesler (10 assists, 7 goals), Marks (5 assists, 2 goals, Maertens (5 assists) and Duraski (7 assists) are among eight starters who return. The Spartans need to replace their two center backs who graduated.
Streamwood
Coach: Santiago Martin (3rd year)
Last year’s record: 13-8-1, 1-5 Upstate Eight West Conference (6th place)
Top returning players: Stephanie Arroyo, sr., D; Nataly Barrera, jr., F; Allison Garcia-Moreno, sr., D; Janette Gomez, jr., MF; Emilee Martínez, jr., MF; Valeria Pinedo, jr., MF; Amy Serna, jr., GK; Sharon Salazar, sr., D; Valerie Silva, jr., MF
Key newcomers: Liana Alfaro, fr., MF; Valeria Barron, fr., MF; Izzy Johnson, fr., F
Worth noting: The Sabres only graduated a few seniors from a team that won 12 more games last year than it did in 2024. Barrera is coming off a 20-goal season.
Timothy Christian
Coach: Nathan Drye (3rd year)
Last year’s record: 16-5-2, 5-1 Chicagoland Christian Conference (2nd place), 4th place in Class 1A state finals
Top returning players: Ella Becvar, jr., MF; Avery Croff, jr., D; Kate Gagliano, sr., D; Mackenzie Laslo, jr., S; Annika Lemkuil, jr., MF; Mia Schilf, jr., MF; Emily White, sr., GK; Lucy Wilgenburg, so., W
Key newcomers: Brooke Hargrove, fr., GK; Mikaela Bullard, fr., D; Kylee Zielke, fr., W
Worth noting: Although Samantha Drye (9 goals, 18 assists) graduated, the cupboard is far from dry at Timothy Christian as Schilf (24 goals, 7 assists), Croff (6 goals, 14 assists), Laslo (17 goals, 11 assists), Wilgenburg (8 goals, 4 assists) and Becvar (9 goals, 6 assists) are among returnees.
Waubonsie Valley
Coach: Julie Bergstrom (26th year)
Last year’s record: 6-10-5, 1-4 DuPage Valley Conference (5th place)
Top returning players: Bella Ahlert, sr., D; Macy Evans, sr. MF; Emerson Hallihan, sr., F; Lexa Jameson, sr., D; Ava Kus, jr., MF; McKinley Ladd, sr., D; Elli Morris, sr., MF; Chloe Shaffer, sr., D; Charlee Van Der Watt, jr., GK; Bella Woolard, sr., MF
Key newcomers: Lexi Castelan, fr., F
Worth nothing: The Warriors return 15 players with a lot of experience.
West Aurora
Coach: Jorge España (3rd year)
Last year’s record: 12-4-1, 5-1 Upstate Eight West (2nd place)
Top returning players: Morgan Adler, jr., D; Sonia Alanis, sr., D; Sarahi Carlos, jr., D; Maelynn Coyle, jr., GK; Lizbeth Hernandez, so., D; Ashley Lopez, sr., D; Jacive Lopez, so., MF; Makayla Parra, jr., MF; McKenzie Pearch, sr., MF; Giselle Perez, jr., F; Lizbeth Salinas, jr., F; Jazmin Silva, jr., D; Natasha Tapia, so., MF
Worth noting: Pearch (Northern Iowa) is among 13 returnees who received starts a season ago. The strong mix of talent should have the Blackhawks competing for a conference title and more.
West Chicago
Coach: Julio Cesar Gomez (26th year)
Last year’s record: 8-7-6, 3-1-2 Upstate Eight East Conference (3rd place)
Top returning players: Sisi Correa, sr., D; Ana Hurtado, jr., MF; Dulce Juarez, sr., D; Kaylee Kreitzer, jr., MF; Molly Merkel, sr., MF; Jessie Myres, sr., D
Key newcomers: Jacky Aguilar, fr.; Isabella Carrasco, fr.; Jocelyn Lopez, fr.; Sophia Rosales, fr.; Unique Paz, fr.; Abby Merkel, so.; Alondra Mendoza, sr., MF; Elina Velasco, sr., MF
Worth noting: Merkel (University of Rhode Island) returns and will lead a versatile attack with Kretizer and Hurtado. The defensive firm of Myres, Juarez and Correa will look to leave their mark on the program.
Westmont
Coach: Francisco Delgado (third year)
Last year’s record: 13-6-3, 4-1-2 Chicago Prep (second place)
Top returning players: Carlee Englebretsen, sr., F; Emma Franklin, jr., MF; Kaitlynn Hoover, sr., D; Ally Vasquez, jr., F
Key newcomers: None listed.
Worth noting: Delgado said the graduation of a four-year goalkeeper has left a void in net which will be tough to replace. “The last two years have given our girls a ton of valuable experience,” Delgado said. “Hoping to be able to capitalize on it.”
Wheaton Academy
Coach: Maria Selvaggio (7th year)
Last year’s record: 13-5-4, 6-0 Chicagoland Christian Conference (1st place)
Top returning players: Whitley Fallow, so., D; Gianna Hughes, jr., F; Annika Vandervelde, sr., MF; Paige Wolgemuth, sr., D
Key newcomers: Addey Nelson, fr., F; Grace Pursley, fr., MF
Worth noting: The Warriors are still feeling the effects of graduating 13 seniors from a supersectional run in 2024, but their youth is talented. “We feel much more experienced and prepared for this group to be very strong,” Selvaggio said. “Our core players from last year are returning with more confidence and experience.” Vandervelde (Wheaton College) had 20 goals and 15 assists last spring while Hughes scored 21 times and had 7 assists.
Wheaton North
Coach: Tim McEvilly (26th year)
Last year’s record: 10-9-1, 3-3 DuKane Conference (fifth place)
Top returning players: Shayne Berner, jr., MF; Olivia Galbraith, jr., MF; Jillian Malcolm, jr., CB
Key newcomers: Emily Brudzinski, fr., CM; Sophia Martinez, sr., AM
Worth noting: Over half the roster features returning athletes. Who will become centerpieces of the future for the Falcons soaring ahead? McEvilly said that will need to be determined as the group takes on roles on and off and the field.
Wheaton Warrenville South
Coach: Guy Callipari (32nd year)
Last year’s record: 19-2-2, 6-0-1 DuKane Conference (1st pla ce)
Top returning players: Ashley Alman, jr., D; Kelsey Clousing, jr., MF; Mae Haas, jr., MF/F; Anna Ittersagen, jr., D; Lucy Jethani, sr., F
Key newcomers: Lucy Adams, fr., MF; Emma Gronlund, sr., MF; Penny Oker, jr., D; Kahira Rahmouni, so., F; Chloe Trinkl, sr., D
Worth noting: Clousing (21 goals, 23 assists) returns for her third season and the 40th season overall in Tigers program history, but there are several key players who have graduated, including all-state goalkeeper Marilyn Dixon and Ashlyn Adams (27 goals).
Willowbrook
Coach: Dwayne Cruz (first year)
Last year’s record: 5-13-1, 3-3 West Suburban Gold Conference (fourth place)
Top returning players: Anna Barager, so., D; Charlotte Lowe, sr., CB; Ruthie Tumpane, so., S; Heidi Urrieta Rosas, sr., GK
Key newcomers: Sophia Amin, fr., S; Sophia Garcia, fr., MF; Kennedy Rieger, fr., MF; Meara Sutton, fr., D
Worth noting: Cruz was the head coach at Harper College for 18 years and has been the head coach at Morton College since 2020. “We are hoping to have a great showing this spring,” he said. “We have a nice young team and I am really excited for this season and the future of Willowbrook.”
York
Coach: Stevan Dobric (ninth year)
Last year’s record: 12-6-4, 3-3 West Suburban Silver Conference (second place)
Top returning players: Lizzy Buranakanchana, jr., D; Jordan Ebner, sr., F; Tatum Mailander, sr., MF; Avery O’Brien, so., MF; Maggie Quinn, sr., MF; Madison Schaefer, jr., F; Andriana Soupos, sr., MF; Elsie Stanley, so., D; Izzy Voirol, jr., F
Key newcomers: None listed.
Worth noting: Mailander (Bowling Green State) was hurt last year. She’s healthy and among a strong core of returnees, including Quinn (six goals, four assists), Ebner (six goals, five assists), Schaefer (five goals, six assists), Voirol (six goals) and Soupos (eight goals, seven assists).
— Joel Boenitz and Russ Hodges from Shaw Local News Network contributed to this preview.